US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced a major $14.5 billion aviation commitment between Etihad Airways, Boeing, and GE Aerospace as part of over $200 billion in trade deals between the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
According to a White House statement, Etihad Airways has agreed to purchase 28 US-made Boeing aircraft – including the next-generation Boeing 787 and 777X models – powered by GE engines.
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The move is seen as a significant step in strengthening the longstanding commercial aviation partnership between the UAE and the US.
“With the inclusion of the next-generation 777X in its fleet plan, the investment deepens the longstanding commercial aviation partnership between the UAE and the United States, fuelling American manufacturing and driving exports,” the White House said.
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Etihad currently operates a fleet of around 100 aircraft.
The airline’s CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, recently stated that the carrier aims to expand to over 170 planes by 2030 as part of Abu Dhabi’s broader economic diversification strategy.
This year alone, Etihad plans to add 20 to 22 aircraft, including 10 Airbus A321LRs, six Airbus A350s, and four Boeing 787s.
Etihad is owned by ADQ, Abu Dhabi’s $225 billion sovereign wealth fund, and has recently undergone restructuring and leadership changes aimed at boosting performance and global competitiveness.
The announcement follows another major win for Boeing earlier this week, when Qatar Airways placed firm orders for 160 widebody jetliners worth $96 billion during Trump’s Gulf tour, with options for 50 more.
Neither Etihad, GE, nor Boeing immediately commented on the deal.